History of Computing, Society, and the IEEE Community
An In-Person Talk & Discussion at the Computational Foundry
The Swansea IEEE Student Branch, in collaboration with the School of Mathematics and Computer Science, is pleased to host an in-person event exploring the history of computing, its societal impact, and the role of IEEE in supporting academic and professional communities.
Held at the Computational Foundry, this event draws inspiration from Swansea University’s History of Computing Collection (HOCC)—a unique research collection founded by Professor John Tucker that examines the relationship between computing technologies, social change, and individual life stories.
Who Should Attend
This event is open to:
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Undergraduate and Master’s students
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Postgraduate researchers
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Academic and professional staff
Participants from computer science, mathematics, engineering, management, and related disciplines are particularly encouraged to attend.
Why Attend
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Gain historical perspective on modern computing and its influence on society
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Understand the long-term value of professional service and IEEE membership
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Engage in discussion across generations of researchers, educators, and practitioners
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Help shape the future direction of the Swansea IEEE Student Branch
Date & Time (Tentative)
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Tuesday 10 March or Wednesday 11 March 2026
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12:00–14:00 (noon start)
Date and Time
Location
Hosts
Registration
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Add Event to Calendar
- Bay Campus, Fabian Way, Crymlyn Burrows
- Swansea, Wales
- United Kingdom SA1 8EN
- Starts 07 February 2026 12:00 AM UTC
- Ends 11 March 2026 12:00 AM UTC
- No Admission Charge
Agenda
Event Focus
The session brings together historical reflection and professional insight, linking:
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Key milestones in the development of computing
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The wider social, economic, and cultural consequences of technological change
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Long-term engagement with IEEE as a professional and scholarly community
Speakers
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Professor Shore will reflect on the evolution of computing and engineering, followed by a discussion on IEEE Life Membership, leadership, and service within the IEEE UK & Ireland community.
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Professor Tucker will examine both the historical development of computing and its more challenging societal consequences, before sharing insights on how students and staff can engage meaningfully with IEEE beyond traditional events.